Saisons

If I were asked to select a single style of beer to drink for the rest of my life, it would be Saisons, the masterpieces from the Belgian region of Wallonia, are chocked full of complex flavors. There’s always something new to experience in a well-brewed Saison, but, before I go waxing poetic about this marvelous style, let’s cover a little history.

Originally, Saison was simply a beer brewed by southern Belgian farmers for farm hands to drink during the harvest time. Today’s Saisons clock in with a varied alcohol by volume and sometimes possess wildly different flavor profiles. However, the style retains its agrarian roots while delicious, rustic flavors shine in any respectable interpretation. Ommegang Brewing’s Hennepin is a beguiling brew perfect for introducing beer lovers to the style. Great malt sweetness, a pear-like fruit, lemony tartness and a good dose of earthy funk make this a delicious introduction to the world of Saison. It’s available for $9.99 per four pack at Highland Package Store.

Avondale Brewing broke into the Alabama beer market with its flagship Spring Street Saison. A bit heftier in body, Spring Street Saison hits the palate with plenty of citrus, malt sweetness and a healthy dose of spiciness and acidity. It’s $16.99 per half gallon at Highland Package Store.

Finally we arrive at Brasserie Dupont’s Saison Dupont, the measuring stick by which all Saisons must measure themselves. Apples and earth in the nose, a zingy acidity that gives way to grapefruity citrus and herbal phenols with a quick, clean finish make this a world class brew. It’s available for $15.99 per four pack at the Western Mountain Brook.